Innovation in Sustainable Accommodation: Technology Awards 2017/18

The Corporate LiveWire judging panel believe that PassivPod is developing one of the most pragmatic and innovative products in the housing market, whilst also promoting sustainability in a way which is beneficial to the user and the environment alike.

PassivPod is a United Kingdom-based manufacturer of zero-carbon luxury accommodation. Created as a joint venture between Strategic Management Partners and Koru Architects, the company is helmed by Commercial Director Clive Bonny, whose first-hand experiences with the wasteful and harmful impact of traditional models used in the construction industry. Identifying the issues with traditional buildings (they are high carbon, have poor air quality, are expensive to run etc.), Bonny developed a solution in the form of PassivPod – a programme which develops sustainable buildings with the capability for multiple applications, with possibilities including as a luxury eco-lodge in the leisure industry, as a school classroom, or even as a home.

The flagship product of the company is an innovative, zero-carbon, multi-purpose building, prefabricated for efficiency with a unique ellipsoid form. The diverse nature of the PassivPod model makes it perfect for application in a number of industries. The building’s biophilic design endears it to the tourism industry, especially as eco-tourism has become one of its fastest growing sectors. Similarly, its open plan design (and easy to implement model) makes it ideal for learning, while its ease of construction makes it ideal for relieving capacity burdens currently faced by the housing and education sectors. These unique buildings promote a lifestyle which is high wellbeing, connecting the user to their surroundings for better mental and physical health. The structure doesn’t just embrace eco-friendly methodology but also incorporates high-end facilities and design finishes ensuring that its innovation does not come at the cost of convenience or comfort for the occupant.

The product is currently available in four models; a garden office (capable of fitting one to two desks), a classroom (capable of holding up to 20 desks), home/leisure small (two bedroom structure) and home/leisure large (four bedroom structure). Having gained significant media traction and interest from the wider industry, the PassivPod model is now being considered as a wider scale development which could revolutionise the housing market, its low running costs and off-the-grid model meaning it can be adopted almost anywhere. The Corporate LiveWire judging panel believe that PassivPod is developing one of the most pragmatic and innovative products in the housing market, whilst also promoting sustainability in a way which is beneficial to the user and the environment alike.